Having a good time doesn’t have to be a financial burden. In a city as vibrant as Nairobi, there are various places you can go to have fun while also saving a buck. From immersive laser tag experiences to the rolling Ngong hills, here is a list of the best affordable places in Nairobi to enjoy under 1000 ksh.
- The Nairobi National Museum
For a touch of cultural heritage, while taking a step back in time, the Nairobi National Museum is the place to go. Experience contemporary art or view the early man selection consisting of 18 million-year-old fossils. Entry: Kshs 150/child and Kshs 300/adult. Open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
2. Giraffe Centre
Giraffe Center takes “being one with nature” quite literally. It is located in Karen, Nairobi. This lovely park allows you to feed, touch and if you are brave, kiss the giraffes. Entry: Kshs 400/resident adults and Kshs 200/resident children.
3. Ngong Hills
The Ngong Hills is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Activities like nature hikes, archery, and zip-lining await you. For more relaxed experiences, picnics and camping with scenic views are also options. Entrance fees(Citizens): Kshs 232/adults and Kshs 58/children.
4. Paradise Lost
Paradise Lost, nestled within a coffee plantation near Kiambu Town just 20 minutes from Nairobi, offers a scenic escape.
For Kshs 500(adults) and Kshs 300(children), you can explore Stone Age caves, enjoy a waterfall, picnic, try zip-lining, boat riding, visit a coffee farm, and more.
5. Oloolua Nature Trail
Think lush green trees, soothing sounds of chattering birds, a rushing waterfall, and caves you can explore.
Oloolua Nature Trail offers all this and more in the suburb of Karen. It is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Entry: Kshs 200/adults and Kshs 100/children.
6. Nairobi Arboretum
Nairobi Arboretum is situated along State House Road in Kilimani, Nairobi. It hosts a variation of indigenous plants, birds, and monkeys.
This is a perfect place for a picnic, a calm walk, a light jog or to connect with nature. The entry fee for adults is Kshs 65 while that for a child is Ksh 27.
7. Hon. John N. Michuki Memorial Conservation Park
Formerly known as Mazingira Park, it stretches along the Nairobi River from Globe Roundabout to Museum Bridge.
Named after the late Environment Minister John Michuki, the park offers green spaces, walking paths, and free admission.
8. Ferris Wheel, Two Rivers Mall
Africa’s largest Ferris Wheel, dubbed Eye of Kenya, stands at Two Rivers Mall in Ruaka, Nairobi.
It consists of 40 enclosed cabins, each accommodating six passengers on a safe and comfortable 60-meter-high journey. Enjoy a scenic 17-minute ride for Kshs 500 per person.
9. Laser Tag, ABC Place Westlands
Head over to Laser Tag Kenya at ABC Place for an action-packed experience. For just Ksh 500, you will have 15 minutes of intense gameplay in their inflatable arena.
This thrilling activity can accommodate groups of up to 10 people simultaneously and is available on weekends from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
10. Indoor Rock Climbing
If you are looking for an activity that will test your physical strength, consider rock climbing at Climb Blue Sky.
It is located at Diamond Plaza in Parklands. The fee for every session is Kshs 1000 without shoes and Kshs 1400 if you rent shoes.
11. Nairobi National Park
A short drive out of Nairobi’s central business district is the Nairobi National Park. It hosts a wide variety of wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy the park’s picnic sites, three campsites, and walking trails for hikers. Park Entry Fee(Citizen) for Adults is Kshs 400 and Kshs 200 for Children.
12. Bowling at Village Market
Located at the Village Market along Limuru Road, the Village Bowl is great for leisure, sports, parties, and entertainment. It features a family-friendly atmosphere with live music.
The space offers other games like pool table, air hockey, and Foosball. Bowling costs range between Kshs 350 to Kshs 500 per person per game.
13. KICC Rooftop
Experience a 360-degree view of Nairobi’s central business area from the KICC rooftop. Notable views include Uhuru Park, Railways Golf Course, and Nairobi National Park.
Open daily, from 9 am to 8 pm (weekdays) and 9 am-6 pm (weekends). Prices are Ksh 150/citizens, Ksh 200/residents, and Ksh 400/foreigners.